Writers look at the world differently. They notice the small moments during the day. They eavesdrop on conversations. They pay particular attention to the color of the sky at dusk. They make notes about things that strike their fancy. They keep track of all these thoughts and ideas in a writer's notebook.
As you begin to think about next year, think about having your budding writers keep a writer's notebook. Train them to see the world through the eyes of a writer. Coach them to notice the sights, smells, thoughts, and feelings as they go through their days. The writer's notebook gives them a place to write their observations down, for use later in their writing. There is a nice little article over on the Stenhouse blog if you want to learn more. If you are feeling brave and adventurous, you may even think about keeping a writer's notebook yourself.
